In this episode, host Janet Michael visits the Capon Valley Bank branch in Stephens City to discuss the value of community banking in today's digital age. Melba Thorne shares insights on personalized banking, financial literacy, and how a century-old institution maintains its commitment to local communities.

About Capon Valley Bank

• History: Serving communities since 1918, starting in Wardensville, West Virginia
• Locations: Five branches across Hardy County (WV) and Frederick County (VA)
• New expansion: Sixth branch opening May 2026 on Winchester's north side (across from Texas Roadhouse on Ezra's Lane)
• Parent company: Highland Bank Shares (sister bank to Grant County Bank)

Banking Philosophy

• "Big bank products with hometown service"
• Focus on personal relationships over sales quotas
• Loan decisions made locally (no waiting weeks for out-of-state approval)
• Treating customers as individuals, not numbers
• Goal: "The Chick-fil-A of banking" - knowing customers by name

Services Offered

Personal Banking:

• Checking and savings accounts
• Home equity lines of credit
• Auto loans
• Rewards checking with "UChoose Rewards" program
• Roundup savings program (automatically rounds purchases to nearest dollar and saves the difference)

Business & Commercial Banking:

• New construction lending (residential and commercial)
• Commercial lines of credit
• Small business startup loans
• SBA loans
• Agricultural loans
• Investment property financing (including Airbnb properties)
• Land loans
• Renovation loans

Financial Tips

Credit Score Protection:

• Limit credit inquiries when car shopping (no more than 2 pulls from dealerships)
• Multiple credit pulls can dramatically drop your credit score
• Get pre-approved from your bank before visiting dealerships
• Target credit score: 680+ (many banks require 700+)

Credit Score Factors:

• Too many credit cards can hurt your score
• Maxed out credit cards negatively impact your score even if paid on time
• One missed payment can drop you below 700
• Medical issues, divorce, and life events are considered with context

Smart Money Habits:

• Build emergency savings for "rainy days"
• Use roundup savings programs to save without thinking about it
• Monitor your credit score regularly through banking apps
• Don't spend everything left over after paying bills

Community Involvement

• Cram the Cruiser: Annual toy drive in December for Toys for Tots (collects 300+ toys per branch)
• Partnership with local police and fire departments
• School volunteer programs and event support
• Sponsorship of local fairs and festivals (Newtown Heritage Weekend, etc.)
• Active chamber of commerce participation
• Community Leadership Program graduate

Technology & Convenience

• Full online banking platform
• Mobile banking apps
• Online account applications available
• Educational learning center on website with product videos
• Still encourages in-person visits for personalized service

Contact Information

• Website: caponvalleybank.com
• Phone: 540-868-1140 Direct line to local branch (no call centers!)
• Commercial Lending: Fred Brooks, Commercial Loan Officer

Resources Mentioned

• Educational videos and learning center at caponvalleybank.com
• Credit score monitoring apps
• SBA loan programs